49ers' keys

Published 4:00 am, Sunday, September 6, 2009

One

Keep Gore happy: Frank Gore gets so down in the dumps after losses he's practically spelunking. The 49ers need to get off to a good start as a team while the line clears the way for Gore.

Two

Vernon Davis, pass catcher: It's time for the ripped and rapid tight end to become a force in Jimmy Raye's tight-end-friendly offense.

Three

Pass rush, please: The 49ers gave no evidence of having even a competent pass rush in preseason, but then, they didn't scheme or game-plan for the rush. Much is expected of Parys Haralson, Manny Lawson and Justin Smith.

Four

Nate, be great : Cornerback Nate Clements must play like he did his last year in Buffalo, 2006, when he broke up 22 passes and was in on seven turnovers. Having Dre' Bly opposite him may lead to more opportunities.

Five

Shaun Hill playing like Shaun Hill: Chances are, he will. He'll need to be efficient, avoiding crucial mistakes. That's his M.O. anyway and it fits in nicely with a 60-40/run-pass offense.

Photo: Lacy Atkins, The Chronicle

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San Francisco 49ers Vernon Davis catches a pass in the second half of the game against the Seattle Seahawks at Candlestick Park, Sunday Oct. 26, 2008, in San Francisco, Calif. Davis was ask to leave field with a few minutes remaining in the game. less

San Francisco 49ers Vernon Davis catches a pass in the second half of the game against the Seattle Seahawks at Candlestick Park, Sunday Oct. 26, 2008, in San Francisco, Calif. Davis was ask to leave field with ... more